Joshua, 23
11. Even so, be very diligent and careful in this: that you love the Lord your God.
11. Even so, be very diligent and careful in this: that you love the Lord your God.
Joshua chapter 23 describes Joshua's final speech to the people of Israel before his death. He reminds the people of God's faithfulness to fulfill their promises and encourages them to remain faithful to the Lord, obeying their law and avoiding idolatry. Joshua warns the people about the dangers of associating themselves with the pagan nations around them, which could lead to apostasy and consequent divine punishment. Following are five verses related to these themes:
Deuteronomy 4:23-24: "Take care, do not forget the covenant of the Lord, your God, who he has concluded with you, and do not make you an idol in any way, according to the Lord, your God, commanded you. For the Lord your God is a devouring fire, a zealous God. " This verse highlights the importance of faithfulness to God and the prohibition of idolatry, something Joshua also emphasized in his speech.
Exodus 23:32-33: "Thou shalt not make a covenant with them, nor with their gods. They shall not dwell in thy land, that they do not sin against me; for thou shalt serve their gods, which shall be a bond for you." This verse warns against the association with pagan nations and highlights the dangers of apostasy.
Deuteronomy 7:2-4: "And when the Lord thy God has given these nations in your hands, thou shalt exterminate them completely. Thou shalt not with them covenant, nor have mercy on them. Your children, you will not even take your daughters to your children. For they would divert your children from me, that they may serve other gods. " This verse is similar to the previous one, admonishing Israel not to make a covenant with the pagan nations.
Deuteronomy 28:15: "But if you do not listen to the voice of the Lord, your God, and do not take care of fulfilling all your commandments and statutes that I command you today, will come upon you all these curses, and will reach you." This verse highlights the importance of obedience to God and the consequences of disobedience.
Joshua 24:14-15: "Now I have feared the Lord, and served it with sincerity and faithfulness. Take the gods to whom you have served your parents beyond the Euphrates and Egypt, and serve the Lord." This verse summarizes Joshua's appeal to the people to remain faithful to God and avoid idolatry.
“Não se desencoraje, pois, se na alma existe o contínuo esforço de melhorar, no final o Senhor a premia fazendo nela florir, de repente, todas as virtudes como num jardim florido.” São Padre Pio de Pietrelcina
